The problem with touting a particular drug is that (1) it takes away from other, likely better research, (2) deprives some people of needed medications, and (3) leads some to truly dangerous efforts. Seriously, I prefer to get my understanding from sources that are steeped in science.
From what I’ve read about Hydroxychloroquine, although it might be effective of some forms of similar viruses, it is worthless for some, and actually dangerous in others. China initially investigated using the drug but decided against it, and there are significant, potentially life-threatening side effects. I’ve also read of many other, more promising efforts, other antivirals, immunity-boosting drugs, plasma with antibodies, etc.
Touting unproven cures, ones that are unlikely to be effective, puts lives at risk, by misallocating effort that should be focused on other, likely more-effective ideas.
For whatever it’s worth, I don’t really think the internet rules of polite conversation about avoiding politics apply here anymore. No matter where you live, your government is making decisions that directly affect your health, and it’s just become more readily apparent during this pandemic. I think it’s fair and relevant to discuss governmental responses (or lack there of), whether you agree with them or not, when it’s directly related to the forum topic, in this case covid-19… It’s a far cry from political propoganda.
I’d go so far as to say it’s impossible to discuss a pandemic without touching on how the governments around the world respond to it. It’s the nature of the beast.
I agree that our governments’ responses to the virus are open to debate and criticism, but I do think it pays to avoid the descent into the abyss of hostility and name-calling. I often guess/assume politics from people’s stances, and I assume people can guess my politics from my posts, but I usually step back and try make my posts as objective as possible, along with maintaining civility and compassion. Granted, there are people disinclined to being analytical in this context, but even then, I believe reason, civility, and compassion should rule, and some of that will have to be judged by moderators - not questioning their objectivity - that will need to make subjective assessments about if a line was crossed.
To consider the issue I’ve raised in its full context, it is not only Sherryann’s comment that should be considered.
In this case, the thread she started may have been made with good intentions on her part, however, it apparently resulted in political bashing by at least one other participant. That’s where the problem lies. It’s a slippery slope, as is evident, if you look at all of the comments that have been made. You may disagree, but I think the more prudent approach would be to possibly ask all participants to do their best to avoid going down that slippery slope. Otherwise, we will soon end up hearing from participants in states across the country regarding how they all thought their respective governors handled the pandemic. Is that really what we want the forum’s focus to be about? I certainly hope not.
You are correct @George49, While I agree that Sherryanns comment began what has turned out to be a round of political bashing I still cannot blame her or her comment for what has happen in this thread. She made her comment without political intent, and has since explained so.
What has happened in this thread is the result of other wishing to take advantage of what they see as an opening to express their own political views. We have all heard the old saying “Give some people an inch and they will take a mile” in this instance the takers have trashed this thread and for this reason I am closing it.
